Partners
Coordinator & Associated Partner
This Project is coordinated by RMIT Europe, the European hub of RMIT University. Based in Barcelona, Spain, RMIT Europe is the gateway for European research, industry, government and enterprise to innovation and talent in Australia and Asia. RMIT Europe is an entity of RMIT University, a global university of technology, design and enterprise with three campuses in Australia and two in Vietnam. RMIT is a world leader in: . Art and Design; . Architecture; . Education; . Engineering; . Development; . Computer Science and Information Systems; . Business and Management; and . Communication and Media Studies. RMIT’s commitment to creating societal impact is evidenced by its positioning in the Higher Education Impact Rankings, being ranked 5th globally, and 1st in Reducing inequalities, 5th in Supporting decent work and economic growth, and 11th for Partnering for the goals (2024). In 2025, RMIT sits at 123th position in the QS World ranking and in the 251-300 band globally, and 14th for Australia, in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025. In 2020, RMIT became the first (and remains the only) Australian institution to receive the HR Excellence in Research Award (HRS4R) through its endorsement and implementation of the European Charter for Researchers and Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers. This award acknowledges institutions that maintain an environment of excellence for researchers and a commitment to providing a supportive, world-class research environment.
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Recruiting/Employing Partners
DREAM+PLAN's Consortium is up made of:
​Recruiting Partners are leading European Universities who will together employ doctoral candidates/early career researchers funded by MSCA and also enrolled at RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia, under a double degree arrangement:
• University of Agder, Norway
• Université Grenoble Alpes, France
• Kaunas University of Technology (KTU), Lithuania
• LUT University, Finland
• Universitat Politécnica De Catalunya (UPC), Spain
• TalTech, Estonia
• University of Vaasa, Finland
The network of Recruiting Partners is further complemented by two other outstanding partners that will employ other doctoral candidates, under a single degree arrangement, fully aligned with the program and funded by national governments:
• University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
• University of St. Gallen, Switzerland
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University of Agder, School of Business and Law, Norway
The University of Agder (UiA) is one of the most modern universities in Norway, and it is still growing and consolidating its position for its high-quality research and study programmes both on the national and international level. The mission of the School of Business and Law at UiA is to co-create knowledge by applying international, innovative, and responsible perspectives. UiA is building a distinct profile in the Norwegian market for business education as a university-based and innovative business school, offering unique international and practice-oriented experiences to our students. The School of Business and Law is internationally accredited through AACSB, and currently has 43 PhD candidates enrolled in the programme from 19 different nationalities.
University of Cambridge, Department of Engineering, United Kingdom
The University of Cambridge is one of the world’s oldest universities, founded in 1209. It is a leading academic centre, regularly ranked in the top 5 universities globally. Cambridge is a globally diverse institution, attended by students from more than 130 different countries. The University of Cambridge sits at the heart of one of the world’s largest technology clusters, home to 5,300 knowledge-intensive companies. https://www.cam.ac.uk/about-the-university. The DREAM+PLAN PhD Positions will be connected to the The Institute for Manufacturing (IfM) which is part of the Department of Engineering, and focuses on 1) World-leading research in collaboration with companies and governments; 2) World-class undergraduate and postgraduate education to create the manufacturing leaders of the future; and 3) Real-world application through the embedded knowledge transfer company, IfM Engage Ltd. https://www.ifm.eng.cam.ac.uk/aboutifm/
Université Grenoble Alpes, France
A multidisciplinary institution located in the heart of the French Alps, Université Grenoble Alpes (UGA) is renowned for its scientific and technological research activities, aimed at providing essential training to students and faculty and at addressing societal issues. Rooted in its territory, multidisciplinary and open to the world, UGA brings together all the strengths of public higher education in Grenoble and Valence. The institution counts 59,000 students, including 10,500 international students, 3,000 PhD students, and 7,800 staff. Among its divisions are Grenoble INP, Graduate schools of Engineering and Management, UGA, Sciences Po Grenoble School of Political Studies, UGA and ENSAG, School of Architecture, Université Grenoble Alpes, UGA.
Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) School of Economics and Business, Lithuania
Kaunas University of Technology had its beginning on 16 February 1922, when the University of Lithuania and its technical faculties were established. The development of Lithuanian scientific ideas continued in the first Lithuanian independent technical school of higher education (in 1950–1990 titled Kaunas Polytechnic Institute (KPI)). It was famous for the ultrasound and vibrotechnics laboratories, and scientific research of textiles. In 1990 KTU regained its status of the university and took a path of rapid reforms of studies and research. The University continues to pursue sustainable partnership of science, business and industry, develops and implements new ideas, innovations and inventions. Since 1922 more than 157 thousand graduates graduated from the University. Kaunas University of Technology has 9 faculties, 8 institutes, 9 research centres, 23 student organisations, 12 dormitories, 7 art groups, KTU Activated Sports and Wellness Centre offering 20 types of sports training, and a Technologija publishing house. KTU is the founder of two integrated centres (valleys) of research, studies and business - Santaka and Nemunas. The KTU National Innovations and Entrepreneurship Centre is responsible for the protection and commercialisation of the university's scientific production. The university has an established Artificial Intelligence Centre responsible for the formulation of KTU's policy on the development and coordination of activities related to artificial intelligence. KTU is an organisation with a strong reputation; contributes to the growth and sustainable development of society; encourages personal growth; has an advanced research infrastructure; offers employee-friendly working conditions; and participates in the European Commission's Human Resources Strategy for Researchers process (HRS4R). KTU is proud of its: competitive study programme portfolio and modern process of studies; motivated students and highly competent lecturers; research and experimental development corresponding to societal needs; transfer of technology and innovation to business and society; modern infrastructure adapted to studies and highest level research; loyal community members working together and united in pursuit of their goals.; The School of Economics and Business at Kaunas University of Technology, internationally and nationally recognized interdisciplinary research and studies centre of excellence in economics, business, and management is significantly contributing to the sustainable development of the national and regional economy and society. The school is an active partner and a leading institution in Management education and research in Lithuania, and the region. Together with other schools it is engaged in training researchers in multidisciplinary studies of innovation and entrepreneurship, while also leading distinct PhD programmes in Management and Economics. Kaunas University of Technology is a leading institution in technology and society driven innovation research and is a centre of entrepreneurial ecosystem, connecting various institutions and businesses around sustainable future channenges, and providing multidisciplinary research solutions.
LUT University, Finland
LUT University is a public science university in Finland that brings together the fields of technology, business and social sciences. LUT University offers bachelor's, master's and doctoral programmes. Clean energy, water and air are life-giving resources for which LUT University's community seeks new solutions and helps society and businesses in their sustainable renewal. LUT's degree programmes are developed in close cooperation with industry. LUT University is internationally recognised for its high-quality research and education, and has received several accreditations and awards including being ranked among the top 150 business schools in the THE World University Rankings by subject for business and economics. LUT's vision is to be a forerunner in clean energy and water, circular economy and sustainable business and its motto is "The Land of the Curious". LUT University Schools participating in the Climate Positive Futures (CPF) proposal are LUT School of Business (LBS) and LUT School of Engineering Science. LUT Business School operates as a business school at the University of Technology. The focus of both education and research of LUT Business School is on sustainable business renewal. LUT School of Engineering Sciences acts as an international expert in the fields of separation, purification and process technology, green chemistry, machine vision and pattern recognition, industrial mathematics and different branches of physics as well as industrial engineering and management and software engineering.
Universitat Politécnica De Calalunya (UPC), Spain
BarcelonaTech (UPC) is a leading public institution in higher education and research, specialising in engineering, architecture, and technology, in which UPC is normally located within the top 3 Spanish universities, according to QS World University Rankings. As Spain’s most prominent technology university, UPC hosts over 32000 students, 30 departments, and 141 research groups. Renowned for its commitment to research and innovation, UPC is at the forefront of addressing societal challenges through cutting-edge solutions and sustainable practices. The university actively participates in international research programs and collaborations, including Horizon 2020 and other European initiatives, with a total financial contribution of € 83 million. UPC’s dynamic environment fosters strong industry partnerships and contributes significantly to technological advancements and resource efficiency. With a focus on fostering a circular economy and supporting impactful, market-ready innovations, UPC is dedicated to driving progress and facilitating global cooperation. The DREAM+PLAN PhD positions will be connected to UPC's EEBE School. Barcelona East School of Engineering (EEBE) (from its Spanish name Escola d’Enginyeria Barcelona Est) is located in the new Diagonal-Besòs Campus, which started operating in 2016- 2017 academic year. Despite its short history, it already counts with over 500 teachers and researchers and more than 3000 students from the different degrees, double degrees, masters and doctorate programmes that are offered in the school, and around 40 research groups working on different topics, including several European and technology transfer projects. The EEBE also accounts with a hall of residence for students, teachers and researchers, which host part of the over 200 incoming students welcomed by the campus.
University of St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
The University of St.Gallen (HSG) is the university of the Canton of St.Gallen and Switzerland’s business university since its establishment in 1898. Today, the University educates more than 9,600 students from approx. 100 countries in Business Administration, Economics, Law and Social Sciences, International Affairs and Computer Science. With success: HSG is among Europe’s leading business universities. In the 2023 Financial Times European Business School Rankings, HSG occupied 5th place. In 2024, the Financial Times rated the Master's in Strategy and International Management (SIM-HSG) as the world's best management master's for the thirteenth time. Its integrative education at the highest academic level earned the international seals of approval of the EQUIS, AACSB and AMBA accreditations. Students are able to obtain degrees at the Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral/Ph.D. Levels. The focal points of research at HSG are its approx. 40 institutes, research centres and Centers, which constitute an integral part of the University. The DREAM+PLAN PhD position will be connected to the University of St. Gallen's Institute of Responsible Innovation (IRI-HSG). Innovation contributes significantly to solving the social and environmental problems that face our societies today. Research on technological and organizational innovation for positive social impact is an interdisciplinary effort that draws on psychology, sociology, organizational studies, information systems, and computer sciences. Such research requires not only broad collaboration across universities, but also collaboration between academia and industry. The Institute of Responsible Innovation (IRI-HSG) is dedicated to providing a cross-disciplinary platform for conducting top-level research and teaching activities on crucial topics including sustainable entrepreneurship, social innovation, entrepreneurship and innovation in extreme environments, and human flourishing.
TalTech, Tallinn, Estonia
Founded in 1918, Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) is the largest university in the capital with more than 9,000 students. It ranks in the top 3% of the global universities and is also one of the most international universities in Estonia with students from 100 countries. The nearly 60 ha territory holds a smart digital campus where a self-driving vehicle, 5G internet and satellites are being developed. TalTech puts great emphasis on the students' international experience and also looks for innovative ways to enrich the students' learning opportunities, e.g. becoming a part of a European Universities Alliance EuroTeQ. The Schools of TalTech include the School of Business and Governance, the School of Engineering, the School of Information Technologies, the School of Science and the Estonian Maritime Academy - taltech.ee/en ESTONIA is one of the hottest start-up hubs in Europe. Population: 1.3 million. A member of: EU, NATO, OECD, Schengen Area, Eurozone. Official language: Estonian with English widely spoken. The most advanced digital society in the world: e-residence, e-voting, digital signature, etc. 99% of public services are available online 24/7. Clean air and green living environment.
University of Vaasa, Vaasa, Finland
The University of Vaasa (UNIVAASA) is a business-oriented, multidisciplinary, and highly international university. UNIVAASA has a core faculty of approx. 450 members and over 5000 students. The university hosts one of the largest internationally accredited business schools in Finland. The university’s three strategic core areas of research are Energy Transition & Technology, Business Management and Governance & Society. The University of Vaasa is ranked 22nd in the world & number one in Finland in business administration in the Global Ranking of Academic Subjects (GRAS) published by Shanghai Ranking. The Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025 places the University of Vaasa among the top 500 universities in the world and THE Young University Ranking 2024 ranks the university in 73rd place. The University of Vaasa is ranked 17th in the Times Higher Education (THE) Small Universities Ranking, 2nd in the Nordic countries. Several University of Vaasa researchers are featured in the recent edition of the Stanford University list of World Top 2% scientists. The University of Vaasa is a partner of EnergyVaasa, the most important energy technology innovation hub in the Nordic countries. The DREAM+PLAN PhD positions will be connected to University of Vaasa’s four schools: The School of Management, the School of Accounting and Finance, the School of Marketing and Communication, and the School of Technology and Innovations. The schools are supported by four multidisciplinary research platforms: Vaasa Energy Business Innovation Centre (VEBIC), Digital Economy, Innovation and Entrepreneurship InnoLab, and Comprehensive Security & Business Resilience. Together, the schools and platforms address challenges across sustainable business, energy, and society disciplines. The acumen for tackling wicked problems is to promote multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, and cross-disciplinary research.
Non-Recruiting/Associated Partners
Associated Partners are are entities which participate in the DREAM+PLAN Action, but without the right to charge costs or claim contributions.
​​​DREAM+PLAN's Associated Partners are:
\​​​​​​​​​​CETAQUA - Water Technology Centre​​​​
A unique model of public-private collaboration that anticipates the needs of its communities and proposes new R&D&I solutions to ensure the sustainability and efficiency of the water cycle.
\​​​​​​​DiversiUnity
Helping make diversity work in international research. Provides training activities in the topic of research diversity and leadership in research environments for aspiring researchers, as well as in diversity and internationalisation.
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eRoots​​
eRoots Analytics SL is a technology company based in Barcelona, Spain, specializing in power system analysis and optimization. The company focuses on developing innovative solutions to address the complex challenges posed by the increasing integration of renewable energy sources into power grids. Their research and innovation activities are centred around grid investment optimization, AC/DC power flow analysis, HVDC and FACTS technologies, and expansion planning for islanded systems. While eRoots Analytics SL primarily operates as an industry-focused company, they have a history of collaborating with academic institutions and research organizations, stemming from its UPC spin-off origins.
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FinanceEstonia
A non-profit financial sector cluster organisation, connecting 90 members from banks, fintechs, legal and consultancy firms and public sector organisations, working closely with the government, financial institutions, and other stakeholders. One of FinanceEsonia's six task forces is dedicated to sustainable finance.
\​​​​​​​​​​​GCE NODE
Global Center of Expertise (GCE) NODE is a cluster of companies that supply world-leading technology, products and services to the global energy and maritime industries. Comprised of 98 companies in the Southern part of Norway. Focused on building competitiveness, enhance the development of new products and services, and transfer knowledge and technology to new markets in a sustainable way.
Is a Finnish, state-owned, limited company and a leading public-sector training house in Finland with over 50 years experience in public service reforms and capacity building. Has implemented various international projects offering innovative approaches and solid expertise for tackling complex challenges and initiating systems change.
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Will provide training activities in topics that are essential for a successful and impactful PhD journey.​​​
New thinking about manufacturing and world-leading research aiming to help: companies develop life-changing products and services, build better businesses, create meaningful jobs, and improve the environment of the future; governments foster innovation and enterprise to deliver social and economic benefits.
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The International Society for Professional Innovation Management is a community of members from research, industry, consulting and the public sector, all sharing a passion for innovation management - how to successfully create new products, processes and services from ideas to stimulate economic growth and well-being.
The Trusted Global Open Innovation & Science Network. Founded in 2006, Innoget is an Innovation consulting firm offering a wide range of services aimed at supporting large, corporates, R&D organizations and universities across the world to collaborate in joint research & development projects, co-develop technical and open innovation challenges.
A Finnish electric vehicle (EV) fast charging equipment and solutions manufacturer and provider striving for rapid growth. Kempower design, manufacture, and sell direct current (DC) fast charging devices, solutions, and services for EV's, such as personal and commercial vehicles, mobile off-highway machinery and electric marine vessels and boats.
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​​​​Kouvola Innovation (Kinno)
Kinno is an innovation hub of Kymenlaakson region that aims to facilitate and assist the expansion of businesses, especially in the Finnish area of Kouvola. Kinno plays an active role in achieving RIS3 Strategies by promoting and enabling business around three smart specialization areas: smart and green logistics, renewable materials, and energy (bio and circular economy priority, and data economy, cyber security and gamification (digitalisation priority)).
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​​​​​​Merinova Technology Centre - Innovation with Energy​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
Merinova is a limited company founded in 1989. The 'EnergyVaasa' cluster, the first (and only) ESCA Gold Certified Cluster in Finland, is managed by Merinova Ltd. The Cluster contains 67 contracted companies, universities, and municipalities (and approx. 100 of their suppliers) in the field of energy production, transfer, saving, and storage products. Â The cutting-edge expertise of the Cluster is in electrical and energy technology, as well as (especially metal) manufacturing.
Finnish non-profit organisation founded in 2018 by social and health care professionals to provide possibilities and means to process emotions and thoughts related to climate and environmental changes and the uncertainty of the future. Offers psychosocial support and tools to build resilience and well-being of individuals and groups through counselling, workshops, peer groups, and lectures.
A R&D-driven strategy and transformation advisory firm working across industries with a strong emphases on "clean & circular" materials, energy, and economy development. RIG invests, builds, and scales ventures in the areas of deeptech, cleantech, and sustainability.
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​​​​​​​​​​​​​​RIG - Radical Innovation Group ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
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​​​​ROSTEKA ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
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A joint venture leading transport and logistic industry in Lithuania and Europe with a focus on quality, growth, and service innovation. Constantly investing in innovation and development of complex and logistic services, and currently focused on application of data driven solutions and real-time optimisation decision-making with an aid of AI for sustainable and reliable logistics.
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​​Schneider Electric​​​
Is a global industrial technology leader bringing world-leading expertise in electrification, automation and digitization to smart industries, resilient infrastructure, future-proof data centers, intelligent buildings, and intuitive homes. Anchored by our deep domain expertise, we provide integrated end-to-end lifecycle AI enabled Industrial IoT solutions with connected products, automation, software, and services, delivering digital twins to enable profitable growth for their customers. They are a people company with an ecosystem of 150,000 colleagues and more than 1 million partners operating in over 100 countries to ensure proximity to their customers and stakeholders.
Established in 1967, The Finnish Innovation Fund, Sitra, is an independent future-oriented fund mandated by the Finnish Parliament and accountable to it. Sitra acts as a think tank, promoter or experiments and a catalyst for co-operation, bringing together partners from different sectors of society to collaborate in shaping the successful Finland of tomorrow.
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​​​The Magic Circle Hut ​​​
Helps others to discover their own magic and wield it powerfully and with intent through movement. Focused on embodied innovation and problem-solving through the lens of deep game design for transformative futures and in building researcher competencies and capacities around managing eco-anxiety.